Orthodontists or Dentists – Which One Do You Need?

Orthodontists and dentists work closely together to achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy and straight smile for you. However, while they are working towards the same goal, dentists and orthodontists fulfil different roles and the expert you should see will depend on your individual situation.

Generally speaking, you can rely on your dentist for a broad range of oral health issues including dental hygiene, teeth cleaning, extractions and dental crowns. On the other hand, orthodontists specialise in specific issues related to dental irregularities.

Your dentist will often refer you to an orthodontist for specialist treatment while your orthodontist might recommend specific dental work before, during and after your braces.

When to See an Orthodontist

As experts in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of teeth, jaw and facial issues, a specialist orthodontist can provide the special care that a general dentist will be unable to provide. Orthodontists are experts in:

facial growth and development

treating crooked and crowded teeth

fixing misaligned jaws

identifying and addressing under bites, cross bites and other bite issues

What Training and Qualifications Does an Orthodontist Have?

Like dentists, all orthodontists must complete a Bachelor of Dentistry, which is a 5-year university course. Following this, orthodontists must also complete a 3-year, full-time Masters’ Degree or similar, specialising in facial growth, development, biology and biomechanics. All qualified orthodontists must also be registered as specialists by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

Only the best dentists are chosen for specialist orthodontic programs, with very few graduates from Australian universities every year.

Do I Need a Referral to See an Orthodontist?

You do not need a referral to book an appointment with an orthodontist or a dentist, although either party may recommend treatments from the other.